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Flooding Displaces Over 200 Families in Rivers State Community

Published by Tope Fakinlede on October 23rd, 2024.

Flooding Displaces Over 200 Families in Rivers State Community

More than 200 families in the Rumaholu-Nkpolu Pipeline Area of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, have been forced from their homes due to severe flooding, FIRST CLASS GISTS reports.

Residents have expressed concerns as snakes and other reptiles emerge in the wake of the floods, which have wreaked havoc on their properties. This is not the first time the area has experienced such flooding; similar incidents were reported in 2017, attributed to construction on waterways.

Thomas, a local resident, shared that during flooding seasons, families often spend around seven months away from their homes, stating that this year they fled quickly upon noticing snakes surfacing from the water. He explained, “If you look inside the abandoned houses, you’ll find snakes everywhere. At night, if you don’t have a flashlight, you might accidentally step on one.”

Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, blamed the situation on property owners who built on canals and urged the government to assist in constructing underground drainage systems. “We have to use boats to access our homes,” she lamented, noting that while they were away, thieves broke into their houses and stole their belongings. “We’re now left to rebuild from scratch.”

Kalu Chukwuma, Chairman of the Landlords Association in the area, also called on the Rivers State Government to act on previous recommendations from the Ministry of Urban Development and Physical Planning. He emphasized the need for proper drainage to redirect water flow.

“Many houses, including multi-story buildings, have been affected,” he said. “While this area was originally well planned, it seems some pathways may have been blocked, contributing to the flooding. We need the government to help open up drainage systems or reroute the water. The situation worsens when water rises and forces snakes out of the ground.”

Chukwuma added that they have had to take some neighbors to the hospital for assistance during this crisis.